Coffee Cream (Crema al Caffè)
Category: Desserts
Serves: 8
The Crema al Caffè is a delicious Italian coffee-flavored dessert that is as refreshing as it is simple to prepare. Combining the rich, aromatic essence of freshly brewed coffee with the creamy texture of whipped fresh cream, this dessert is perfect for coffee lovers and those seeking a light yet indulgent treat. It can be enjoyed as a sweet finish to any meal or a special afternoon pick-me-up.
The beauty of this dessert lies in its easy preparation, requiring just a few quality ingredients and a little patience. Let’s walk through the simple steps to make this delightful treat that will surely impress your guests.
Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Freshly brewed coffee | 70g |
| Sugar | 40g |
| Fresh liquid cream (heavy cream) | 300g |
Instructions:
| Step | Instructions |
|---|---|
| 1 | Start by preparing the coffee. Use a moka pot or your preferred method to brew 70 grams of strong coffee. Make sure to use high-quality coffee for the best flavor. Once brewed, add 40 grams of sugar to the hot coffee, stirring well until the sugar is completely dissolved. |
| 2 | Allow the coffee to cool slightly at room temperature for a few minutes. Afterward, transfer it to the fridge and let it chill for at least two hours. The cold coffee will create a perfect base for mixing with the whipped cream. |
| 3 | Once the coffee has chilled, pour 300 grams of fresh, liquid cream into a bowl. Make sure the bowl is cold as well to help the cream whip faster and hold its shape better. |
| 4 | Using an electric mixer, start whipping the cream on low speed, gradually increasing to medium-high until soft peaks form. |
| 5 | With the mixer running, slowly pour the chilled coffee into the whipped cream, a little at a time. Add the coffee in a thin stream (a “filo”) while continuing to beat the cream mixture until it reaches a thick, fluffy consistency. |
| 6 | Continue whipping until the cream has fully set and the mixture has a firm, mousse-like texture. You should be able to scoop it up easily and see soft peaks forming when the whisk is lifted. |
| 7 | Once fully whipped, cover the bowl with plastic wrap and place it back in the refrigerator for another 30 minutes to allow it to firm up further. |
| 8 | After chilling, your crema al caffè is ready to serve. Spoon it into individual cups or bowls and enjoy! You can also garnish it with chocolate shavings or a sprinkle of cocoa powder for an extra touch. |
Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 150 kcal |
| Protein | 1g |
| Carbohydrates | 14g |
| Sugars | 14g |
| Fat | 11g |
| Saturated Fat | 7g |
| Cholesterol | 40mg |
| Sodium | 30mg |
| Fiber | 0g |
Tips for the Perfect Crema al Caffè:
- Quality Coffee: The coffee is the star of this dessert, so be sure to brew a high-quality blend that you enjoy drinking. Espresso or strong brewed coffee works best for a more intense flavor.
- Chill Your Ingredients: Ensure that both the coffee and the whipping cream are well-chilled before you begin, as this helps the cream whip faster and more effectively.
- Texture: For the best texture, be sure not to over-whip the cream. If you go too far, the cream may break and become too stiff. Stop whipping as soon as soft peaks form and the cream is thick.
- Make It Ahead: Crema al caffè can be prepared a day ahead of time and stored in the fridge. This allows the flavors to meld even further, creating a more intense and rich coffee flavor.
Crema al Caffè is not just a dessert; it’s a delightful coffee experience in every spoonful. Its smooth, creamy texture and aromatic coffee flavor make it the perfect dessert for any occasion, from casual family dinners to elegant dinner parties. With only three key ingredients, this dessert proves that sometimes simplicity is the best way to create something extraordinary.
Whether you’re serving it after a meal or enjoying it as a midday treat, Crema al Caffè is sure to become a favorite in your home.
